Toni Kroos has apologised to Spain midfielder Pedri after the Germany legend injured his opponent in the Euro 2024 quarter-final clash on Friday.
Spain triumphed late in extra-time to set up a semi-final meeting with France, but it was not without casualties.
The Barcelona star was forced off within the opening minutes after Kroos put in two hard challenges on the youngster, who looked visibly emotional as he left the pitch.
But Pedri would have the last laugh as his nation booked a place in the next round, although reports suggest his tournament is now over.
Kroos took to Instagram to reflect on the incident, saying: “I would also like to say something very important: I apologise and get well soon to Pedri!
“Obviously it wasn’t my intention to hurt you. I hope you get better quickly and all the best. You’re a great player.”
Kroos and Pedri were fierce rivals in LaLiga, with the former playing for Real Madrid.
Volverás más fuerte, @Pedri. ❤️🩹 pic.twitter.com/DPfdU9ZQCs
— LALIGA (@LaLiga) July 6, 2024
But they will not compete again as Kroos announced the Euros on home soil would be his final outing before retiring.
The 34-year-old shocked the world by announcing that he would be hanging his boots up but explained he wanted to go out on top.
He was unable to take his country to one more final, but was not too upset, based on his social media post.
He added: “[September 29, 2023]: my phone rang. Caller: Julian Nagelsmann Request: return to national team.
“First thought in my mind: I’m not stupid! First thought in my heart: f*** yeah! The heart decided to know.
“My first thought this morning 7/6/2024: I’m glad I did. Despite all the sadness and emptiness since the whistle yesterday.
“I’ve seen more and more in the team than she has shown in recent years. But I didn’t expect that it is possible in such a short time to have a really realistic chance at the title and to be up to date with the best again!
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“That’s why I’m very proud of what this team did! And that can be all of Germany again. A special thanks to you out there who made this home [European Championship] a special one.
“We have seen you, experienced and felt you!
“On a personal level, I would like to thank you for a really very special warmth and affection over the last weeks.
“This was very special. And finally a request: Now that Germany has won back its beloved child: don’t let it go!
“The path of this team continues. And it helps brutally if you stand by her even in bad phases!
“Because one thing I can assure you: this is a group of great people who do everything they can to succeed!”
